Xavier Watts, Howard Cross, Jack Kiser and Riley Leonard hoist the Sugar Bowl trophy Jan. 3, 2025 (Photo: Chad Ryan)
Since the inaugural NFL Draft in 1936, Notre Dame has had 532 players drafted, the most of any college program. Draft numbers are often a solid indicator of a program’s historical depth and talent, and the Irish stand at the top.
Here’s how the rest of the top ten shakes out:
- USC – 530
- Ohio State – 489
- Oklahoma – 417
- Michigan – 415
- Alabama – 411
- Penn State – 389
- LSU – 381
- Georgia – 379
- Florida – 373
Last year, seven Irish players were drafted, headlined by Joe Alt, taken 5th overall by the Raiders. This year’s class doesn’t have a top-five lock, but it’s a group full of grit, talent, and upside.
The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off:
- 📅 Thursday, April 24 at 8 PM ET (Round 1)
- 📅 Friday, April 25 at 7 PM ET (Rounds 2–3)
- 📅 Saturday, April 26 at 12 PM ET (Rounds 4–7)
📺 Coverage on ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and NFL Network
Notre Dame’s Likely 2025 Draft Picks
Xavier Watts – Safety
A converted wide receiver, Watts has blossomed into a ferocious, instinctive All-American safety. His 100-yard pick-six vs. USC last year was the stuff of legends. Athleticism, football IQ, and leadership? He checks every box.
Prediction: 2nd Round –(First Irish player off the board)
Benjamin Morrison – Cornerback
Injury slowed him last year, but Morrison is still one of the better cover corners in the class. His bloodlines (father: former NFL safety) and resume (9 INTs, 26 starts) make him an intriguing Day 2 target.
Prediction: 2nd Round
Rylie Mills – Defensive Line
Twice on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List,” Mills is a workout warrior with size and burst. Unfortunately, an ACL tear late in the season hurts his stock, but someone’s getting a steal.
Prediction: 5th Round
Jack Kiser – Linebacker
ND’s all-time career starts leader. Made noise at the Senior Bowl and during his Pro Day. He’s instinctive, fast enough, and outworks everyone. Coaches will love his smarts and toughness.
Prediction: 6th Round
Mitchell Evans – Tight End
Evans was on the path to being the next great ND tight end until injuries disrupted his 2023, and slowed him into 2024. Still, he put together a 43-catch season and showed promise as a blocker. NFL body, NFL potential.
Prediction: 6th Round
Riley Leonard – QB / Swiss Army Knife
Someone please call him the next Taysom Hill already, except he is a better passer than Hill. Leonard’s dual-threat skills, leadership, and football IQ make him a perfect gadget guy or developmental QB.
Prediction: 7th Round
Howard Cross III – Defensive Tackle
Knock on Cross is size (6-1, 288), but…hello, three time NFL defensive player of the year Aaron Donald was 6-1, 280. Cross has been a rock for the Irish D, and his motor is undeniable.
Prediction: 7th Round
Eligible but likely UDFAs (Undrafted Free Agents)
- Beaux Collins (WR) – Big, athletic target who can win contested catches.
- Jordan Clark (DB) – Undersized but productive, with NFL bloodlines (son of Ryan Clark).
- RJ Oben (DE) – Great frame for a rush end, late bloomer but lots of potential.
- Kris Mitchell (WR)-One word SPEED.
- Jayden Harrison (WR-KOR)-the hero of the Sugar Bowl has got skills.
- Rod Heard II (S)- Experienced, versatile productive player, should get a look.
That’s the guide. Enjoy your spring immersion into the great game of football. It’s a celebration of everything we love about the sport—heart, hustle, and the next generation of Fighting Irish stars chasing their dreams.